Mobile network services for ATOM and Mytel have been restored in Payathonzu, a border town in Karen State, following reports that Starlink satellite internet devices used across Myanmar and along the Thai-Myanmar border would be shut down, according to residents.
Starlink's parent company warned that devices must be returned to their original countries of registration by August 17 to maintain service.
However, residents reported that 4G mobile internet access became available in Payathonzu in early August, making communication faster and easier without reliance on Starlink equipment.
"We haven't had proper network access for over a year. While basic phone calls were somewhat possible, most people in town depended on Starlink," a local trader said. "Now that mobile internet is restored, doing business has become much easier."
Following the restoration, demand for ATOM SIM cards has surged at local phone shops. Retailers noted that individuals suspected of representing cyber-scam operations have also been buying internet signal boosters in large quantities.
During the prolonged internet blackout—originally imposed as part of regional crackdowns on online scam centers—Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA) leader Saw A Wam, who oversees administration in Payathonzu, reportedly helped arrange Starlink access for local operations, according to community sources.
Residents speculate that Saw A Wam may have played a role in negotiating the restoration of Myanmar’s mobile networks, potentially to support ongoing cyber-scam activities.
"The motive is clear," a resident said. "With Starlink devices facing shutdowns, mobile services were restored to facilitate operations for Chinese nationals, who have been using ATOM and Mytel again for about two weeks."
While mobile internet coverage has improved across most town wards, low-lying areas still rely exclusively on Starlink. Residents remain skeptical about whether the restored mobile access will remain stable over the long term.
As part of cross-border measures targeting cyber-scam hubs, the Thai government cut off electricity and fuel supplies to five border locations, including Payathonzu, in February.
Although residents briefly switched to ATOM SIM cards after the power cuts, mobile coverage was abruptly suspended again on March 20, leaving the area facing a complete telecommunications blackout until the recent restoration.
